STATEMENT OF MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF LINE OF DUTY DEATH OF POLICE OFFICER EDWARD BYRNE

“Twenty-five years ago today, Police Officer Edward Byrne was shot and killed on a street in Queens while guarding a witness who was willing to assist the cause of justice. His senseless murder by assassins – who wanted to send a message to anyone taking on drug dealers – shocked our city and the entire nation. Our City has come a long way over the past 25 years, and our success has been built on the heroic and selfless work of the members of the NYPD. Today, as we remember Edward Byrne and keep his family in our thoughts and prayers, we also re-affirm our resolve to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and protect the police officers who protect us.”